Note from previous owner found on injured dog's collar

"Skipper," formerly known as "Diesel," enjoys a scratch behind the ears from his new owner, Sarah Rice. (Jan. 31, 2013/FOX Carolina)

Veterinarians said this is the note that was found on the dog's collar when he was found. (Jan. 31, 2013/FOX Carolina)

INMAN, SC (FOX Carolina) -

An injured dog found wandering around Inman had a note on its collar from a previous owner, saying they could no longer afford to care for the pooch.

The boxer mix named "Diesel" has had a rough road. If his rib cage showing didn't give it away, the marks, scratches and hobbling might.

"A lady found him in Lyman and brought him in to have him checked for a microchip," said Sarah Rice, of Inman Animal Hospital. "He didn't have one, but he did have a note attached to his collar."

The note said, in part, "My name is Diesel. I am three years old. I am up to date on my rabies vaccination." The note goes on to say that the pooch's previous owner was too sick to care for him any longer.

Veterinarians said they believe Diesel was sent out to fend for himself, possibly for weeks, before he was brought to the clinic.

"We're guessing he was hit by a car, because his tail is broke, and you can tell on X-ray that the tail vertebrae [are] dislocated form the rest of it," Rice said. "It just hangs limp."

Rice said Diesel's leg is also broken, but has begun to heal.

With all the heartache that has befallen the dog, there was some good that came out of his ordeal. Rice said she couldn't help but fall in love when Diesel arrived.

"As soon as I walked in the room, he came right up to me and let me pet him," Rice said. "I knelt down on the floor in front of him, and he immediately started licking my face."

Rice said she is certain the pooch was loved and cared for before he was put out. She said she's going to make sure he's returned to a loving home by adopting him and renaming him "Skipper."

"When you love them, you have to take care of them," Rice said. "Even if that means going the extra mile to find them a good home."

Veterinarians said Skipper's leg and tail will have to be amputated, but he should become healthy again in no time.

So far, the previous owner has not been found. Officials said dumping any kind of pet should never be an option. They said there are animal rescues and shelters that will take in the pet and try to find it a new home.